Histamine Block, Seeking Health, 30 Capsules

Benefits

• May help support the digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates
• May help relieve occasional bloating and fullness after meals
• Helps support comfortable digestion after a large or rich meal
• May help support nutrient absorption from food
• Traditionally used to support digestive comfort
• May help support the breakdown of food when natural enzyme production is lower

What people commonly use it for

• Bloating and fullness after meals (Some clinical studies suggest enzyme blends may help with post-meal discomfort)
• Occasional gas (Some evidence, especially for enzymes targeting specific carbohydrates)
• Heavy feeling after high-fat meals (Early research suggests lipase may help)
• Difficulty with dairy or legumes (Good evidence for lactase with lactose, and alpha-galactosidase with beans)
• Slower digestion with age (Early research only)

Suggested to use alongside

• Probiotic: Friendly bacteria to support gut wellbeing
• Peppermint: Traditional herb for digestive comfort
• Ginger: Warming root traditionally used to support digestion

Digestion starts in the mouth, where amylase in saliva begins breaking starch into sugars. In the stomach, pepsin starts on protein. Most of the work happens in the small intestine, where the pancreas releases a mix of enzymes:

• Amylase breaks starches into simple sugars
• Proteases break proteins into peptides and amino acids
• Lipase breaks fats into fatty acids and glycerol, with help from bile
• Lactase breaks down lactose, the sugar in milk
• Cellulase and alpha-galactosidase help with some plant fibres and the sugars in beans and vegetables

Supplements may use animal-derived pancreatin, or plant and fungal enzymes such as papain (papaya), bromelain (pineapple) and Aspergillus-derived blends. Fungal and plant enzymes tend to work across a wider pH range, so they can stay active in the stomach.

Timing matters. Enzymes work on food, so they are generally taken at the start of a meal, not on an empty stomach. Activity is measured in standardised units, and the mix of enzymes matters more than any single number.

The best evidence is for single-purpose enzymes such as lactase. For general blends, research is smaller and results are mixed. See the Cochrane review on pancreatic enzymes and the NIH for background.

Histamine Bloc from Seeking Health contains a patented enzyme formula that provides 10,000 HDU of diamine oxidase (DAO) - the main enzyme responsible for the degradation of ingested histamine - per capsule. Histamine is known as a biogenic amine, an organic nitrogen compound that is involved in some immune responses and found in mast cells. It can participate in the regulation of healthy functioning in the digestive tract, as well as in the nervous system. Histamine also plays an important role in triggering the body's normal inflammatory response.

However, excess histamine can be a problem, leading to histamine sensitivity / intolerance, digestive problems, allergies and more. Individual sensitivity to histamine varies, and some people may be more reactive to histamines and other biogenic amines in food. Diamine oxidase (DAO) has been clinically tested and found to break down food-derived histamine in the gastrointestinal tract. DAO is not absorbed and has no systemic activity. The histamine block does not cope or respond to food allergies associated with antibodies or IgE.

Serving Size: 1 Capsule

Servings per Container: 30

Ingredients: Content in a portion in 100 g % RDA

Diamine Oxidase (from porcine kidney protein concentrate): 4.2 mg (10,000 HDU)

Other ingredients

microcrystalline cellulose, vegetarian capsule (hypromellose, water and gellan gum), ascorbyl palmitate.

Dosage

Serving Size: 1

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

Supplier ref: Seeking Health Histamine Digest (Formerly: Histamine Block, Digestive Support) 3

What do digestive enzymes do?

They help break food down into smaller molecules your body can absorb. Your body makes its own, and a supplement adds extra support.

When should I take digestive enzymes?

Generally at the start of a meal, or just before your first bites. They need to mix with the food to work.

Can I take digestive enzymes every day?

Many people use them with larger meals or daily for a period of time. If you find you need them constantly, mention it to your healthcare professional.

What is the difference between plant and animal enzymes?

Animal enzymes come from pancreatin, usually of pork origin. Plant and fungal enzymes suit vegetarians and generally work across a wider acidity range.

Do digestive enzymes help with bloating?

Some people find they help with fullness and bloating after meals, especially when the enzyme matches the food, such as lactase for dairy. Results vary.

Can digestive enzymes cause side effects?

They are usually well tolerated. Some people notice mild stomach upset, loose stools or an upset tummy when starting, so begin with a lower dose.

Check the source if you avoid pork products or have a pineapple, papaya or mould allergy. Enzymes with proteolytic activity may increase bleeding risk with blood thinning medicines. Ask your healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, have a stomach ulcer or have a pancreatic condition.

This product comes from a smaller independent supplier. Supporting small and family-owned makers is a big part of what we do.

HerbalHealth.Shop is your friendly Australian home for natural health. We bring together a huge range of trusted vitamins, herbs and natural skin care, from the world's best-known brands to small family-owned businesses and handmade makers we're proud to support.